Jasmine Crockett’s shocking announcement that she plans to leave the U.S. in solidarity with Brittney Griner, citing a lack of respect for Black talent, has ignited fierce debates about race, patriotism, and the treatment of Black athletes, leaving the nation divided and questioning whether this marks the beginning of a celebrity exodus.

Jasmine Crockett vying to be top Democrat on House Oversight | The Texas  Tribune

In a stunning moment that is already sending shockwaves through the entertainment world, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett made a jaw-dropping announcement during a live interview yesterday that has left both her supporters and critics reeling.

The Texas Democrat, known for her outspoken views on social justice, revealed that she plans to leave the United States in solidarity with WNBA star Brittney Griner, saying, “There’s no respect for talent here anymore. If a country no longer values greatness, it’s time to move on.”

The statement, made during an appearance on a popular political talk show, has quickly gone viral, sparking intense debates about race, fame, and the very definition of being “American” in 2025.

While many fans praised Crockett’s stance, seeing it as an act of bold defiance against a nation they believe has failed to respect its Black icons, others have slammed her as “unpatriotic” and “out of touch.”

“I’ve watched Brittney Griner fight for her freedom on foreign soil, only to come back to a country that doesn’t appreciate her for the champion she is,” Crockett said, her voice filled with palpable emotion.

“And I’ve seen this same treatment happen time and time again to Black talent. It’s time to say enough is enough. I’m done.”

This is about saving lives': the Texas Democrat fighting for gun control  and abortion rights | Texas | The Guardian

For those unaware, Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the most dominant players in women’s basketball, was detained in Russia for several months last year after being arrested for possession of cannabis oil.

While Griner’s release was celebrated by many, Crockett has consistently voiced concerns that the U.S. government’s handling of Griner’s case was less than admirable, citing systemic inequalities faced by Black women, especially in the world of sports.

Her comments about leaving America were made in the context of an ongoing national conversation about the treatment of Black athletes, particularly women, and how the country’s current political and social climate continues to impact their lives and careers.

Crockett, who has built a reputation as a progressive force in the political world, pointed to several instances where Black talent was “silenced or ignored,” with Griner’s arrest being just the most visible example of a larger trend.

Jasmine Crockett on Her “Old as Shit” Colleagues, the White-Woman Vote, and  More 2024 Insights | Vanity Fair

“I’m not the first to feel this way,” Crockett added. “How many of our great Black artists, actors, and athletes have been forced to leave America because they weren’t valued? How many more will have to walk away before this country wakes up and realizes that it’s not just about politics — it’s about respect for the greatness within our borders?”

This bold declaration has sparked a fierce backlash from some corners of the political landscape. Conservative pundits and critics have quickly accused Crockett of “betraying her country” and called her remarks a “slap in the face to America’s values.”

Fox News host Tucker Carlson, in his nightly show, described Crockett’s statement as “reckless” and “disrespectful,” while others on social media called her a “traitor” and “too privileged to understand the struggles of ordinary Americans.”

Yet the statement has also found support from a wide array of figures, including celebrities, activists, and sports figures who have expressed solidarity with both Crockett and Griner.

In particular, Griner’s own fans and advocates have praised Crockett for her bold stand, with some stating that Crockett’s words echo their own frustrations about systemic racial inequality and the lack of proper recognition for Black talent.

Crockett calls Trump 'ridiculous tyrant' while cheering on fleeing Texas  Dems | Fox News

“My respect for Jasmine Crockett just went up a thousand percent,” said one fan on Twitter. “She’s saying what we all feel but are too scared to say out loud.

If the country doesn’t appreciate its heroes, then why stay? We should all be willing to fight for respect — whether we’re athletes, politicians, or just ordinary people.”

In the wake of the announcement, many are now asking whether this could mark the beginning of a celebrity exodus from the U.S., with more high-profile figures taking a stand against a system they feel has failed them.

While no other celebrities have publicly expressed plans to leave, the idea of high-profile figures using their platforms to speak out against what they see as systemic injustices in the U.S. has clearly resonated with many.

Crockett’s comments come at a time when racial tensions in America are high, with widespread protests, increasing awareness of systemic racism, and a polarized political environment.

While the country has made some strides in addressing inequality, the path toward true social justice remains a contentious and complicated issue — one that Crockett’s statement has now brought front and center in the national conversation.

Dallas Rep. Jasmine Crockett announces run for House Oversight Committee  leadership position | FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth

As of now, there are no specifics on where Crockett might move or whether she will join Griner in relocating abroad. The congresswoman has, however, promised to continue her advocacy for social justice, regardless of where she lives.

“I am not going to stop fighting for what’s right, but I refuse to do it in a country that doesn’t recognize the worth of its own people,” she concluded, leaving many to wonder: Is this truly the start of a celebrity-driven exodus, or just an emotional outburst in a world that feels increasingly divided?

With the debate continuing to rage on social media and in political circles, one thing is clear: Jasmine Crockett’s words have struck a nerve. Whether they’ll inspire a wave of change or a mass exodus remains to be seen, but for now, the conversation she’s ignited will only grow louder.